The crises of recent years (the coronavirus pandemic, the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis, etc.) have made our lives much more difficult. Greek business could not fail to be affected by this situation. In this context, it had to adapt to the new conditions and evolve focused on innovative ideas, implementing the Level-up|G4A program.

In this climate, however, the Greek startup scene has blossomed. It has recorded a significant contribution in the field of sustainable development, aiming for a better and greener world.

But it is true that it is not enough just to have a good idea. It is very important to have the appetite, the dedication and the passion to implement the idea. But these alone are not enough for an idea to blossom into a successful business. This extra that is required - and it is very important for every startup to have from the initial idea and after it matures - is to exist:

• the right organisation
• a well-designed plan and
• the right advice from people with years of experience in the field

The Level-up|G4A programme

Bayer Hellas, a company with a leading position in the fields of Health and Agriculture, understands how important it is to promote the Greek startup ecosystem. That is why it offers all the right tools to bring out innovative solutions that can offer to society. So, in this effort of Greek startups, the company comes to help with its rich experience. In particular, remaining committed to the principles of sustainable development and innovation and with the vision of "Health and Food for All", encourages for for the second consecutive year to develop new, sustainable ideas through the renewed Level-up|G4A programme. The programme was launched in 2021. This year, it is further supported by the parent company Bayer AG through the G4A Open Innovation Program.

The programme provides all the necessary support for research teams and startups to grow either organically or by securing funding.

Two main axes

In 2022, the programme Level-up|G4A is being relaunched and has two main pillars. The first axis is the Level-up|G4A Incubator: The purpose here is the University teams and research teams from the disciplines of Health and Agri-Food. to develop their ideas into business proposals through experienced support and advice. The second axis of the programme is the Level-Up|G4A Accelerator . Here, the focus is on the development of startups from the sector of Health and Agriculture , which are at pre-seed/seed level.

The path to success is full of obstacles and requires hard work. That is why Bayer Hellas, knowing this very well, contributes to this effort. In particular, a total of 10 candidates have been selected for 2022, 5 for each of the two axes. Participants will have the unique opportunity to be guided by mentors From qualified, high-level executives of the company, with experience in the field of Health and Agriculture. They will receive useful advice and will have the opportunity to participate in Bayer's international competition programmes (such as G4A). The aim is to become potential partners of the company locally or regionally.

Second cycle of Level-up|G4A

The second cycle of the programme officially starts on 9 January 2023 and is expected to be completed in June 2023. Upon completion of the Level-up|G4A Accelerator program, one of the 5 participating startups will be selected based on specific criteria to receive a cash prize.

Through interesting seminars and open discussions, Bayer Hellas will solve any questions and provide useful advice on topics such as:

• branding and strategic planning
• how the search for funding is carried out; and
• how to build the ideal team that will bring success and growth

Bayer Hellas always stands by innovative business ventures that lay strong foundations for the future. The company encourages the development of new ideas. The Level-up|G4A program comes to provide the necessary tools for the development and continuous evolution of both startups and the excellent research teams of our country, in order to promote Greek innovation. After all, in a rapidly changing environment, fast, innovative solutions are needed and these can only be achieved through effective and efficient cooperation. The start-up sector needs initiatives such as Bayer's Level-up. Initiatives which, in addition to equipping participants, lay the foundations for future synergies.